Ambassadors - Representatives to the World
By Phyllis Naegeli
1 What is an ambassador? Why do we need them? America maintains a diplomatic relationship with nearly 180 countries around the world. American embassies can be found from England to Micronesia to Brazil. An ambassador is the official representative of the United States at each of these outposts.
2 An ambassador has many different responsibilities. With the help of Foreign Service staff, they use diplomacy to promote United States' interests. An ambassador must have excellent communications skills and be up-to-date on the latest political atmosphere in a host country. They maintain constant communication with the State Department and other Executive Branch Departments.
3 Ambassadors are always available to help Americans traveling abroad with situations they encounter. They may help them find medical care, help them with legal matters, and, under certain circumstances, an ambassador is responsible for evacuating Americans from foreign countries. Ambassadors work hard to keep American citizens safe in the world.
